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For most, a vacation to Saudi Arabia will never become a reality, but for those that get the chance to travel there for business or wish to risk entering the country, you may find yourself having one of the richest cultural experiences of your life. For Westerners, Saudi Arabia represents the heart of the Middle East, including rich Bedouin culture, Islam, oil, Arabian Nights and terrorism. At the time of publication, the U.S. State Department does not warn against travel to Saudi Arabia but recommends continued security precautions while traveling to destinations within the country.

Riyadh

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's capital and financial center, remains a juxtaposition of traditional Bedouin culture and modernization. The city offers historical sites, modern architecture and sidewalk cafes where you can enjoy traditional Arabian cuisine. When you travel to Riyadh you can visit historical sites such as the Marabba Palace and Masmak Fortress, in addition to visiting the city's famous sparkling towers, the Al-Faisaliah Tower and Kingdom Tower. A visit, however, to the National Museum cannot be missed. Often cited as one of the best museums in the Middle East, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia (arriyadh.com) exhibits extensive displays of Arabic and Islamic culture and history that is housed on eight floors.

Jeddah

Located along the western shore of the Arabian Peninsula, Jeddah is not only Saudi Arabia's largest seaport but also is considered to be the most cosmopolitan city in the country. Although you will see Saudi women dressed in an abaya, a traditional robe and head covering, you will find barely clothed women on the beaches. Jeddah, Saudia Arabia's melting pot, is home to many citizens from other countries and has been influenced by its multiculturalism. In addition to its distinctive coral architecture in the old part of the city, Jeddah is home to two notable museums, traditional souks and a 20-mile Corniche, where you can view the famous sculptures that line the pedestrian walkways.

Mecca and Medina

Non-Muslims are forbidden to enter the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina, which makes these cities uncommon travel destinations for Westerners. But as the two holiest cities of Islam, they are often considered two of the most important destinations in Saudi Arabia. Mecca was the birthplace place of death of the Prophet Muhammad, Islam's messenger from God. Islam teaches that Muhammad revealed the word of God after the Angel Gabriel appeared to him in a cave on Mount Hijra, near Mecca. After proclaiming himself as the prophet, their were tribal disputes in Mecca. Muhammad and many of his followers traveled to Medina, where he lived until Mecca was conquered by the remainder of his followers. Today, Muslims from all around the world travel to Mecca on an obligatory pilgrimage, called a hajj, that they must perform once in their lifetime because it symbolizes Muhammad's pilgrimage. Medina remains important as home to Islam's three oldest mosques and the remains of the Prophet Muhammad.

Madain Saleh

Not necessarily the most popular, but possibly the most interesting destination in Saudi Arabia, is Madain Saleh. Within the country, Madain Saleh is known as "The Capital of Monuments." The ancient city is an archaeological site that dates back to the Nabataeans civilization, famous for its capital, the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. The pre-Islamic historic attraction is a three-level grave site. Each tomb is built into the surrounding mountains with family inscriptions on its facade.

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About the Author

Jessica Morelock began her professional writing career in 2007, after a three-year stint as a producer and co-host on Sirius Satellite Radio. She has also worked for the airline industry and as a travel agent. She completed a bachelor's degree in political science at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.

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